Utilizing a collective impact approach for healthy community efforts

introduction: The Healthy Communities Partnership (HCP) represents cross-sector collaboration that began in Southwest Indiana in 2009. After implementing two Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant-funded projects that focused on evidence based programs, policies, and infrastructure improvements toward healthier lifestyles, the HCP has transitioned to using the Collective Impact model.

objective:  The HCP will ensure the three preconditions are established before moving into the three phases of Collective Impact. The partnership will commit to the five conditions of Collective Impact that will distinguish these efforts from other forms of collaboration.                                          

methods:  A group of community stakeholders (Leadership Team) in Vanderburgh County, Indiana began discussions centered around applying a Collective Impact approach to healthy community efforts addressing large issues such as an accessible food system, safe and healthy physical environments, and tobacco-free living; all of which recent local data identified as the greatest areas of need. The newly-focused Leadership Team is building expanded stakeholder support for their collective vision of improved health outcomes and higher quality of life. The group will develop a framework to guide the process of preventing chronic disease in the Evansville metropolitan area and refine the focus to allow for achievable outcomes.

results: Building on the success of previous federally-funded work, the HCP has gained respect in the community, making it possible to engage influential leaders in a more impactful form of collaboration.

conclusions: By adhering to the principles of Collective Impact, the HCP has committed to a common agenda for chronic disease prevention in southwest Indiana.